A Study of the Short Story by Henry Seidel Canby

 

A Study of the Short Story

 

by Henry Seidel Canby

 

FOREWORD BY OLIVIA SALTER

In the vast and varied landscape of literature, the short story stands as a testament to the power of brevity and concision in storytelling. Its ability to captivate readers within a limited space and time is a true art form and one that has been celebrated and analyzed by countless literary scholars throughout history. Among these scholars, Henry Seidel Canby remains a stalwart figure revered for his insightful and comprehensive exploration of the short story genre.

With his work "A Study of the Short Story," Canby delves into the depths of this intricate form of literary expression, providing readers with a rich and illuminating examination of the genre's history, techniques, and significance. Through this comprehensive study, Canby invites readers on a journey to explore the fascinating world of the short story, offering valuable insights into its evolution, structure, and enduring appeal.

Canby's passion for his subject shines through every page of this remarkable work. Drawing upon his extensive knowledge and expertise, he presents a collection of critical analyses and engaging commentary, shedding light on the nuanced aspects of the short story that often go unnoticed. From the works of well-known masters to lesser-known gems, Canby brings a discerning eye and a profound understanding to his examination of the genre's most significant contributions.

More than a mere academic exploration "A Study of the Short Story" serves as a guide for both aspiring writers and avid readers. Canby's nuanced discussions on the craft of short story writing, the elements of effective storytelling, and the impact of social and cultural contexts offer invaluable lessons for those seeking to create their own narrative worlds or gain a deeper appreciation for the tales they encounter.

What sets Canby's work apart is his ability to bridge the academic and popular realms effortlessly. His writing is accessible, allowing readers of all backgrounds to engage with the material without sacrificing the depth and scholarly rigor necessary for a comprehensive study. By combining meticulous research with insightful analysis, Canby presents an indispensable resource for scholars, students, and enthusiasts of the short story.

As we embark on this journey through the world of the short story with Henry Seidel Canby as our guide, we are reminded of the multitude of voices, perspectives, and emotions that have been masterfully encapsulated within this compact yet profound literary form. We are encouraged to explore the intricacies of the human condition and the transformative power of storytelling in its purest and most distilled form.

In "A Study of the Short Story," Canby invites us to join him in celebrating the genre's rich legacy and timeless beauty. Through his erudite prose and passionate inquiry, he reminds us of the enduring impact and infinite potential that lie within every short story. It is my utmost pleasure to introduce this remarkable work to readers, as it beckons us to uncover the hidden treasures found within the concise and captivating world of the short story.

1912.

CONTENTS

 
I.    What is a Short Story?
II.    The Medieval Short Story
III.    The Short Story of the Renaissance
IV.    The Short Story of the Eighteenth Century
V.    The Short Story and the Romantic Movement
VI.    Poe, and the Further Development of the Romantic Short Story
VII.    Nathaniel Hawthorne
VIII.    England in the Mid-Century
IX.    America in the Mid-Century. The Broadening of the Field of the Short Story
X.    Bret Harte
XI.    The Further Broadening of the Field of the Short Story
XII.    The Local Colorists
XIII.    The Deepening of the Short Story. Henry James
XIV.    The Short Story in England. Robert Louis Stevenson
XV.    The Short Story in England. Rudyard Kipling
XVI.    The Contemporary Short Story

ILLUSTRATIVE SHORT STORIES

The Pardoners Tale    Geoffrey Chaucer
The Prioresses Tale    Geoffrey Chaucer
The Vision of Mirza    Joseph Addison
The Lingering Expectation of an Heir    Samuel Johnson
Wandering Willie’s Tale    Sir Walter Scott
The Masque of the Red Death    Edgar Allan Poe
The Gold-Bug    Edgar Allan Poe
Ethan Brand    Nathaniel Hawthorne
Rab and His Friends    John Brown
The Sire de Malétroit’s Door    Robert Louis Stevenson
On Greenhow Hill    Rudyard Kipling

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